Eleven of the victims were transported to local hospitals for further assistance
NEED TO KNOW
- A strong storm with heavy winds caused the tent to collapse at an outdoor church service in Moneta, Va. on Friday, June 12
- The large tent collapsed around 6:45 p.m. local time at the East Lake Community Church’s 20th anniversary event
- One person was killed, while another 11 people were hospitalized
One person was killed, and 22 people were injured during an outdoor church service in Moneta, Va., on Friday, June 12.
At around 6:45 p.m. local time, a large tent collapsed during the East Lake Community Church's outdoor service, Bedford County announced in a news release.
Bedford 911 Emergency Communications was alerted to the incident, which was initially classified as a mass casualty event. The Moneta Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene and began rescue efforts.
One person died at the scene, while 11 victims were transported via ambulance to local hospitals. Another 11 victims were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
The tent had passed inspection conducted by the Bedford County Division of Building Inspections on Tuesday, June 9, the county said. The tent collapsed due to the weather after a strong storm with heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds rolled through the area, the news release said.
The church community "suffered a great tragedy" while celebrating its 20th anniversary, the church's pastor, Troy Keaton, said in a statement.
"A burst of wind picked up the tent," leading to the dangerous accident, Keaton wrote.
"Sadly one of our dear brothers suffered a fatal injury. Our hearts are broken for his precious family," he wrote of the deceased victim. Keaton did not have further details about the hospitalized victims, but said, "We are currently focused on caring and praying for them."
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger also issued a statement, sharing how her "heart is heavy with the news."
"I am grateful for the quick response of first responders, and our team is in close contact with the response team on the ground to provide assistance," she wrote. "I am praying for the EastLake Community Church and all who are impacted, and we will continue to support the community during this difficult time."
PEOPLE reached out to the East Lake Community Church for comment.
Read the full article here
